Niki’s Resort in Gubbio (Umbria), Italy

After a lingering goodbye and a final long look at the spectacular view of the Umbrian hills and our hotel, I entered the car reluctantly with my kids and husband. It had been one of the best stays we had. My youngest daughter spoke out loud what was going on in our minds, Siamo stati così bene in questo albergo! (We stayed so well in this hotel!). It’s so true and I would like to share with you this little gem in a quiet corner in the hills of Umbria.

Sometimes the prospect of a long weekend holiday lingers on my mind after a long stretch of our daily routines. Having already a preconceived idea of what kind of a hotel I wanted to stay in, Niki’s Resort came up as the perfect choice during my search. It was hard not to like the resort because it has everything that I was looking for. The rolling hills with rows of vineyards casting shadows on the valleys is the sight that greets you from its hilltop position.

Nestled on the natural terrace overlooking Valle dell’Assino joining Gubbio and Umbertide lies Niki’s Resort. The complex has an important history dating back from 1137 where there is a fortress with a tower that served as the lookout post on the valley below to defend the area and the Church of Santa Maria di Agnano, possibly built even earlier, in 416 A.D. as evidenced from a papal decree that had a referral to it.

The medieval complex was restored conforming to the proper restoration of historical monuments respecting its original architecture and historic access routes.

The whole resort was designed with simple and modern fixtures that parallel with the old architecture. The result is a beautiful resort that blends with its peaceful surroundings. It’s definitely that place for a total relaxation.

There are two swimming pools (three if you count the small kiddie pool attached to the regular one) in positions that highlight the spectacular view around the resort and a pool bar service where you can order snacks or light lunches and drinks all day. You can also practice your golf swings at the driving range or play golf nearby. For wellness, you can go for their Finnish sauna, Jacuzzi or massages.

Or, just grab a book and relax under the shade of their fig tree overlooking the hills which is also the lovely spot for the daily aperitivo that they serve.<

Breakfast is quite an experience for it is served inside the 12th century church amidst the frescoes and the altar. There is an ample amount of hams, cheeses, cakes, fruits, cereals and much more to start your day.

Although they still don’t have a restaurant on-site, Niki’s Resort offers a dinner service in the complex. They have a chef who comes to cook for the guests and in summer, dining is al fresco (weather permitting) by candlelight. The dinner menu changes daily and it is distributed during breakfast where you can order in advance your choices if you decide to eat in the premises. I recommend that you do because the food is very good along with their selection of wines.

Niki’s Resort is a good base position to visit some historical towns in Umbria like the nearby Umbertide that’s just about 18 kilometers to its west, or Montone, a few kilometers further more from Umbertide, or Gubbio which is about 27 kilometers to the east.

Whatever kind of holiday takes you to Niki’s Resort, you will be sure to be taken cared of pretty well. It’s a place for everyone – couples, families with kids and even the four-legged ones. So that is the little corner in Umbria that my small daughter wanted to share with you. Oh by the way, give Koira a little pat on the head. She’s the warmest welcoming committee you can ever have and she’s from Niki’s Resort.